REFEREE'S VIEWS: STEVE BENNETT
Steve Bennett questions why refereees are expected to tolerate the abuse they are subjected to
Away from the pitch, most of us, would never fire such offensive verbal abuse at another human being; we would never act like ravenous animals smelling blood or remonstrating with frenzied and vulgar gestures. Regrettably, football, the sport acknowledged as the beautiful game is tarnished when this type of behaviour occurs.
As soon as the popularity of the modern game began to attract large crowds of supporters disputes became commonplace with match officials often targeted as scapegoats. Today, compounded by a general deterioration in social discipline, abuse of match officials across the country results in fewer officials being prepared to take charge of matches. Only last week I witnessed a referee and his ‘club’ assistant referees getting ‘dogs’ abuse from the players and so called supporters at a local recreation ground. It seemed as though the comments were being accepted as part of the game and at no time did the match officials question or even challenge the offenders making these remarks.
These outbursts are the main reason why fewer people want to become referees. It’s a question of educating players, managers and fans so they have a different attitude towards referees. The FA’s Respect Programme has gone a long way in helping the current situation; match officials must feel confident and safe when they officiate at any level. This programme has highlighted the clear need for everyone in the game to have a more responsible approach to the welfare of the referee.
Dealing with these situations often brings further conflict but we cannot afford to turn a ‘blind eye’ or be afraid of taking the appropriate action. The need to enforce this Law to the full in conjunction with the governing bodies with heavy punishments will hopefully act as a deterrent and gradually eradicate these individuals from our game.
We all have a responsibility as ‘guardians of standards’ to ensure the image of the game is protected. Football is a passionate game and we all need to understand and differentiate between situations of frustration and acts of blatant abuse. Our man-management skills must be used effectively in dealing with players who challenge our authority.
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